Plumbers in Fredericksburg, VA, share a brief guide to water softeners.
Fredericksburg, United States - October 9, 2024 / Plumb Perfect Plumbing /
What Is Hard Water – And Why Does It Matter?
The term “hard water” almost sounds like an oxymoron or a contradiction—how can a liquid be hard? Despite how it sounds, the term refers to any water containing higher-than-normal dissolved minerals levels. Calcium and magnesium are the most common minerals found in everyday tap water, but other dissolved metal ions can also contribute to hard water.
As water passes through riverbeds or seeps through soil and stone to an aquifer or reservoir, it can collect these naturally occurring minerals, making the water “hard.” In general, hard water is perfectly safe to drink but can cause various other household problems. That’s why many homeowners install a water softener, which removes dissolved minerals from the water. This article will explain how water softeners work, their benefits, and some signs it may be time to install one!
How Do Water Softeners Work?
Water softeners work by removing or neutralizing the minerals that cause hard water. Different types of water softener systems achieve this in different ways. The most common type uses an ion exchange process, in which the water passes through a tank filled with thousands of tiny resin beads that capture the mineral ions. Point-of-use water softeners, such as reverse osmosis systems, can remove minerals from water at a single faucet. However, the best way to combat the harmful effects of hard water is to install a whole-home water softener. It is typically installed just upstream of the water heater, near where the water mainly enters the house, so that every faucet and fixture in the house will have soft water.
How to Tell the Home Has Hard Water
Generally, the harder the water, the more noticeable its effects will be. The minerals in hard water can wear down clothing, make it harder to rinse away soap, and even collect on surfaces in the form of mineral deposits. Mineral deposits can accumulate unnoticed in water pipes for years, eventually clogging the pipes or causing them to rust. Likewise, hard water can cause valves to seize and damage components in appliances like dishwashers and washing machines.So, to catch the issue before irreversible damage is done, homeowners should always be on the lookout for these signs of hard water:
- Cloudy spots on glasses, dishes, silverware, shower curtains, faucets, etc.
- Soap scum accumulates very quickly in showers and tubs.
- White or greenish crust (mineral deposits) on showerheads and faucets.
- Dry hair and dry, itchy skin.
- Clothes, towels, and linens are fading or wearing out rapidly.
- Lower water pressure (may indicate scale buildup in pipes).
Whole-Home Water Softener Benefits
By installing a water softening system, homeowners can enjoy all the benefits of softer water, such as:
- Healthier, more hydrated hair and skin.
- Clean, spotless dishes.
- Less time is spent cleaning mineral scales and soap scum out of showers, tubs, and sinks.
- Longer-lasting, brighter-looking clothes, towels, and bedspreads.
- Reduced wear & tear on appliances and plumbing fixtures.
- Less money is used on appliance replacement and plumbing repairs.
For those tired of dealing with hard water's uncomfortable and annoying effects, the best time to install a water softener system is now. Since several types of water softening systems exist (with a wide range of price tags), homeowners should always consult a qualified plumber to determine what kind of water softener is best for their specific needs and budget!
About Plumb Perfect Plumbing
The experts at Plumb Perfect Plumbing have been serving the Fredericksburg community with pride for over 20 years. Their commitment to honest pricing, unbeatable workmanship, and stellar customer service has earned them an A+ rating from the BBB and Nextdoor’s “Neighborhood Favorite” award. Their team of trustworthy, licensed, bonded, and insured technicians is available seven days a week, so don’t hesitate to call Plumb Perfect for water softener installation in Fredericksburg, VA!
Contact Information:
Plumb Perfect Plumbing
6305 Old Plank Rd
Fredericksburg, VA 22407
United States
Thomas James
(540) 388-1485
https://www.plumbperfectva.com/
Original Source: https://www.plumbperfectva.com/press-releases
